Credential Requirements for International Applicants

USC Upstate welcomes the applications of international students. Because you will have many arrangements to make in order to attend the University, it is important that you apply at least six months before the semester in which you plan to begin your studies.

Note: Remember that you must apply online and submit the $40 non-refundable application fee.

English ProficiencyAn international student at the University must be proficient in English (i.e., a minimum Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of 500 (paper based) or 173 (computer based) or 61 (internet based); TOEFL is not required of students whose native language is English) and be a high-school graduate (which means you must have completed about 12 years of pre-collegiate education in your country of origin).

TranscriptsInternational applicants must also provide official copies of school transcripts or certificates of satisfactory study (such as "A" or "O" levels, baccalaureate, bachillerato, Abitur or other school certificates). These records must include an English translation of the subjects you have studied and the grades you made in each subject. Ensure that the school's grading system is explained.

Sufficient FundingThe Office of Undergraduate Admissions must receive official documents (originals, not photocopies) that certify that the student will have sufficient funding to attend the University of South Carolina for one calendar year. This evidence will be used to issue the student an immigration document (I-20 or IAP-66), which will be required to obtain the F-1 or J-1 student visa at a US embassy or consulate. Students must also complete the Financial Certification Form.

Credential EvaluationStudents who have attended post-secondary educational institutions, colleges or universities outside of the United States are required to submit a professional credential evaluation of all work completed. This is generally referred to as a course-by-course report. A course-by-course report should be sent directly to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions from the evaluation service. An admission decision will be made once the official evaluation is on file and all other required materials are received.

If you are currently enrolled in a term or semester, you should contact the evaluation service about getting a partial evaluation done. A final evaluation will be required prior to enrollment.

The University of South Carolina Upstate is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate and masters degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia, 30033 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of USC Upstate. Comments or Complaints?